List B1 - Graphical and Computational
Choose ONE task from this list, OR ONE task from List B2  |  Back to Course Menu

   1    Construct a star chart on a large rectangular grid using stars of the main constellations. Plot the positions and path(s) of at least one planet using either original observations or published ephemerides (eg Handbook of the BAA).
2 Draw a large chart of the Moon from references to photographic material, marking in and naming principal features and positions of Apollo and other notable lunar landing sites.
3 Use a spreadsheet and/or a graphing package or write a computer program to plot the stars of the main constellations and plot the positions and path(s) of at least one planet using either original observations or published ephemerides (eg Handbook of the BAA).
4 Use a spreadsheet and/or a graphing package or write a computer program which simulates the scaled orbits of either at least four planets around the Sun or the major satellites of a named planet.

Further tasks which can be carried out:-
  • Use of a spreadsheet to plot an H-R diagram
  • Use of a spreadsheet to show planetary motion through the zodiac
  • Use of PowerPoint to illustrate an aspect of Astronomy such as Stellar Evolution


Criteria for tasks taken from List B1 - Graphical and Computational

STATEMENT OF TASK MAXIMUM 2
Clear and precise statement of nature and purpose of task
Vague statement of nature and purpose of task
No statement of nature and purpose of task		 2
1
0
QUALITY OF MATERIAL MAXIMUM 6
Award a mark on a linear scale from 0 to 6 for the quality of material, taking into account such factors as:
  • size
  • clarity
  • use of colour (if applicable)
  • labelling
  
INFORMATION DISPLAYED MAXIMUM 5
Award a mark on a linear scale from 0 to 5 for the information contained on the chart or on the print-outs, taking into account such factors as:
  • relevance of information
  • access to information
  • correct terminology and units
  
REFERENCES MAXIMUM
2
Good references giving full information
Incomplete references
No references
 2
1
0
PRESENTATION MAXIMUM 4
Material is neat and very well presented in a logical order
Material is fairly neat and well presented in a logical order
Material is satisfactorily presented
Material is poorly presented
Material is poorly presented in a haphazard order
 4
3
2
1
0